cytoplasmic streaming The directional movement of cytoplasm in certain cells, which allows movement of substances through the cell, especially around the cell's periphery. It has been observed most clearly in large cells, such as plant sieve elements and unicellular algae, in which simple diffusion is ineffective as a means of local transport in the cell. The exact mechanism of streaming is unknown but it is thought to involve the interaction of motor proteins (attached to organelles) with actin microfilaments parallel to the direction of flow. A similar streaming of cytoplasm is responsible for amoeboid movement.

cytoplasmic streaming The continuous, often rapid, movement of cytoplasm within a cell. It is a process requiring expenditure of energy by the cell and is thought to involve microfilament and microtubular (see MICROTUBULE) activity. See also CYTOKINESIS.

cytoplasmic streaming The continuous, often rapid, movement of cytoplasm within a cell. It is a process requiring expenditure of energy by the cell and is thought to involve microfilament and microtubular activity.